The best cycling routes around New Paltz

The Mohonk Preserve loop from New Paltz via Humpty Dumpty Road cycling route offers a truly immersive experience through the Shawangunk Ridge. This difficult 22.8-mile (36.6 km) touring cycling route, with its 1966 feet (599 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 3 hours and 32 minutes to complete. You'll navigate unpaved carriage roads, winding through hemlock and pitch pine forests, past massive conglomerate boulders, and encounter scenic viewpoints overlooking Mohonk Lake and the distant Catskills.

Planning your ride requires a $20 day pass for the Mohonk Preserve; an annual membership grants earlier access starting at 7 AM. Given the varied Mohonk Preserve cycling terrain, which includes gravel, dirt, and steep, rocky sections, a gravel or mountain bike is highly recommended for this challenging loop. There are no specific public transport options mentioned, so plan for car access.

This route is part of the Mohonk Preserve's extensive network of historic carriage roads, originally built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The preserve spans over 8,000 acres of protected land, showcasing unique geological features like the "Giant's Workshop" on Humpty Dumpty Road, a valley filled with gigantic white boulders. It's a National Historic Landmark, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

The Awosting Falls loop from New Paltz is a demanding touring cycling route that takes you through varied terrain and stunning natural beauty. You'll navigate everything from well-maintained carriage roads to rough gravel and singletrack, all while passing the impressive 60-foot Awosting Falls and enjoying tranquil views of Lake Minnewaska and Lake Awosting. This difficult 30.0-mile (48.3 km) ride, with 2989 feet (911 metres) of elevation gain, is a true test of endurance, taking around 4 hours and 33 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit requires preparation for the challenging conditions, including the notorious Awosting Portal climb, a 2.5-mile gravel ascent. The route is within Minnewaska State Park Preserve, so be aware of potential parking fees and check for any required cycling permits or seasonal access restrictions. Ensure your touring bicycle is robust enough for the mix of surfaces, and consider starting early to make the most of the daylight.

This route stands out for its dramatic scenery, including clifftop vistas from Castle Point that offer expansive views of the distant Hudson River. The blend of dense hardwood forests, serene sky lakes, and the powerful Awosting Falls makes it a visually rewarding experience. It's a significant undertaking for experienced touring cyclists seeking a memorable adventure in the New Paltz area.

The River-to-Ridge Trail is a fantastic touring cycling route that winds through the heart of Ulster County, New York, offering continuous views of the majestic Shawangunk Ridge. You'll pedal along a well-maintained gravel and stone-dust path, passing through open farmland and meadows where cows often graze, with the impressive Mohonk Mountain House visible in the distance. This 8.2-mile (13.2 km) journey, with its gentle 370 feet (113 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and typically takes just over an hour, making it perfect for a relaxed outing.

For a smooth start, head to the Springtown Road trailhead in New Paltz, which boasts ample parking and convenient amenities like a water bottle filling station and a self-service bike repair stand. While the trail is mostly flat, expect some rolling foothills and gentle inclines that add a bit of challenge, especially if you're on a road bike. Since much of the route is exposed, consider an early morning or late afternoon ride during warmer months to avoid the midday sun.

Beyond its scenic beauty, the River-to-Ridge Trail serves as a crucial connector, linking to the extensive Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and providing access to the vast trail networks of the Mohonk Preserve and Minnewaska State Park Preserve. Opened in 2018, it's a relatively new and highly regarded multi-use path that offers a safer alternative to busy State Route 299, welcoming cyclists, runners, and even horseback riders.